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Rumors floated around that former Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson would return to help the team through its kicking struggles, but Hanson's agent refuted those rumors this week. Lions coach Jim Caldwell even laughed when asked about the rumor.

Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz gave PK David Akers a public vote of confidence after he missed his fifth kick of the season in Thursday's 40-10 win over the Green Bay Packers, but the Lions are planning to work out kickers next week as they weigh their options at the position. Akers, who signed a one-year deal to replace long-time kicker Jason Hanson in April, has made just 15 of 20 field-goal attempts this year and the Lions rank 29th in the league in field-goal percentage.

The Detroit Lions are not close to a new deal with PK Jason Hanson. The Lions have offered Hanson the veteran minimum, but that is not something that interests Hanson's camp. "They haven't made an offer that's interesting to us," said Jack Mills, Hanson's agent. "So we don't see any urgency about trying to make a deal."

Updating an earlier report, Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson said he thinks he wants to play next season. He turns 43 in June and will be a free agent after the season. "I think so," Hanson said when asked if he wants to keep playing. "I know I can. Like I said, I haven't really processed all that. Just get some of the nagging little kicker owies, toenail hurts, that kind of thing, let that calm down and then just really evaluate because I know I don't want to play anymore unless I know I want to play and feel like I'm going to show up for offseason and run and do all the stuff."

Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson said he may call it a career following the season after 22 seasons. "I know I can (play)," Hanson said. "Like I said, I haven't really processed all that. Just get some of the nagging little kicker owies, toenail hurts, that kind of thing, let that calm down and then just really evaluate because I know I don't want to play anymore unless I know I want to play and feel like I'm going to show up for offseason and run and do all the stuff."

Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson is 42 years old, and in his 21st NFL season. When he trotted out for the game-winning field goal in overtime of the Week 6 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, he admitted he had butterflies. "I was nervous," Hanson said. He ended up drilling it, and the team improved to 2-3.

Detroit Lions impending free-agent PK Jason Hanson said he wants to return to the team in 2012. "I feel like I can still do it," Hanson said. "If they want me, I'll be ready." He's unsure if he will have to compete with another kicker in training camp if he is re-signed.

Updating a previous report, Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson (knee) said he hopes to fully practice Friday, Nov. 11, after being limited to short field goals during practice Thursday, Nov. 10. Hanson said he cut his knee during a vacation with the family during the bye week.

Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson (knee) kicked several field goals prior to practice Thursday, Nov. 10, an indication he'll likely be available for Week 10. Hanson's injury affects his plant leg, which held up well during his pre-practice kicks.

Detroit Lions P Ryan Donahue has won the battle for the team's punting duties this season. The Lions, as reported, released P Nick Harris. Donahue, a rookie, averaged 44.1 yards per punt during the preseason, with three landing inside the 20-yard line. He also proved to be a capable holder for PK Jason Hanson.

Detroit Lions PKs Jason Hanson and Dave Rayner were each perfect in the preseason opener Friday, Aug. 12, against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hanson converted his only field goal from 37 yards out, and he added three extra points. Rayner nailed a 44-yarder, and he tacked on one extra point.

Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson (knee) is battling a slew of recent injuries, and, for the first time in his career, another player as he competes in training camp with PK Dave Rayner, who is 13 years younger than the 41-year-old Hanson. "We have a lot of confidence in Jason," head coach Jim Schwartz said. "If we have a pressure kick, I'd trust Jason to do it. It's just been a matter of health. He's gotten a little bit older, and the last two training camps he's been hurt. But as far as making the kicks and things like that, I have no problem."

Detroit Lions PKs Jason Hanson (knee) and Dave Rayner will battle for the team's kicking duties during training camp. Hanson is entering his 20th year in the league, but said he feels the job is his if he is healthy and kicking like he has in the past. He has had two knee surgeries in the past two years, and he missed eight games last year. Hanson said he is 100 percent healthy and has been kicking since May. He was hitting 45-yard field goals during practice Friday, July 29, much as he has throughout his career.

The Detroit Lions may not need to keep PKs Jason Hanson and Dave Rayner on their roster next season because of the proposed rule changes to kickoffs, reports Dave Birkett, of the Detroit Free Press. Rayner could have stayed with the team as a kickoff specialist but if the new rules pass, Hanson should be able to handle the kickoffs.

Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson (Achilles', ankle) is no longer wearing a walking boot on the foot where he suffered an Achilles' tendon injury during the season, reports Dave Birkett, of the Detroit Free Press. Hanson said he is not sure when he will be able to resume football-related activities.

Detroit Lions PK Jason Hanson (knee) did not participate in practice Friday, Nov. 19, and has been ruled out for Week 11, reports Dave Birkett, of the Detroit Free Press. Hanson could be ready for the team's Week 12 game.